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Dawn came slowly on October 25th in Palm Desert. By 5:30 a.m., dedicated Palm Desert Rotarians ventured into the dark to begin setting up for our Pancake Breakfast before the Golf Cart Parade.

By 6:00, Gary Jones had the coffee brewing and Carol Winston arrived with her famous banana bread. Other Rotarians followed, along with the GREAT team from Desert Arc. Many hands made quick work of unloading chairs, tables, food, and supplies. Even more Rotarians arrived, and soon the setup was in full swing.

By 7:45, the griddles were hot, spirits were high, and we proudly welcomed our first customer through the ticket desk run by Wendy O’Kane. A steady stream followed, and the cooking crew kicked into high gear. As diners moved through the line, they were greeted by Carol Winston and Marilyn Sanderson, who enthusiastically shared the virtues of Rotary and handed out flyers—sparking some great conversations.

Amy Laboda kept the health inspectors satisfied with our sanitary setup. The Interact students mixed pancake batter with such gusto that they kept pace with the army of chefs and servers led by Leroy Johnson and Tom Tragesser.

Carol Pipitone and Sharon’s ShelterBox tent stood prominently at the front, drawing interest from diners and passersby alike. Conversations ebbed and flowed throughout the seating area, where umbrellas provided welcome shade from the morning sun.

District Governor Richard Lemire and DG?Elect Brian Perris arrived, shaking hands and pitching in with the day’s tasks. They prepared for the Palm Desert Rotary Golf Cart Float in the parade alongside President Maryalice and cart organizer Tracey Jones.

At 11:00, the griddle lights went out, and everyone jumped in to help pack up. With weary arms and legs, Rotarians and friends—ably organized by Angel from Desert Arc—loaded the trailer. Tables were rolled, chairs stacked, and all the little odds and ends were packed into trucks and SUVs for return to storage. Many tired helpers walked away knowing we had served over 300 meals with efficiency and teamwork. Well done, everyone!

But the day wasn’t over for some. Maryalice and Tracey’s golf cart entry was ready and loaded (with the DG and DG?Elect aboard) to head down El Paseo in the parade of over 100 floats. A sturdy group of Rotarians still had enough energy to walk behind the cart, joined by a troop of scouts organized by Meegan Villa. The float was warmly received, and we took pride in seeing the Rotary logo and motto prominently displayed.

This was yet another successful event for Palm Desert Rotary. With ticket sales and the support of our many sponsors, it was a wonderful day when Rotarians and friends came together in fellowship to raise funds to send students to RYLA and PRYDE.